Diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. A diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants is necessary for health and vitality. Unfortunately, the average modern-day diet is full of unhealthy foods and beverages that are high in fat, sugar and artificial additives. Understanding the dangers of an unhealthy diet helps motivate and educate people to make healthy food choices.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiencies occur when one or more vitamins or minerals are missing from the diet. The effects of nutrient deficiencies depend largely on which nutrient is absent and the severity of the deficiency. According to Washington State University, poor nutrition can lead to both short- and long-term consequences, including weak teeth and bones, cavities and problems with heart and brain functioning.
Obesity
Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the United States and around the world. Different than being a bit overweight, obesity is defined as being at least 20 percent over your ideal weight range. Along with exercise, diet is the main factor that determines body weight. A diet high in fat, sugar and refined carbohydrates not only leads to poor nutrition, but also to weight gain and obesity.
Distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy fats, carbohydrates and proteins is vital for maintaining a healthy weight. Carbohydrates should come from whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and beans, while fats should be supplied by sources like flax seeds and fresh fish. Lean protein in the form of skinless baked chicken, fish and nuts is preferred over high-fat meats like steak and pork.
Mental Disorders
A healthy diet is essential for proper functioning of the brain. In addition to thinking, learning and problem-solving, the brain is responsible for emotional regulation and maintaining a stable mood. According to the American Journal of Psychiatry, women who eat a typical Western diet high in fat and sugar are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression than those fed a diet of vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.
Like the rest of the body, the brain relies on nutrients for its fuel. Nutrient deficiencies stemming from an unhealthy diet can impair brain functioning by starving the brain of the building blocks needed to repair damaged cells, produce neurotransmitters and perform other vital functions.
Low Immunity
The immune system serves as the body's protective barrier against illnesses of all kinds. Proper nutrition is needed for optimal immune function. When the diet is deficient in nutrients, immune cells become weak and unable to respond to illnesses like the flu and common cold. According to the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, deficiencies in even a single vitamin or mineral can cause abnormalities in immune response.
Nutrients that directly affect immune function include vitamins A, C, E and the B-complex vitamins as well as the minerals iron, selenium and zinc. Antioxidants found in plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables are also needed for optimal immune function and to prevent oxidative damage.
Member Comments